Traffic

As part of planning for Downtown Phase II, traffic impact studies were performed that examined current traffic conditions and what might be anticipated after Downtown Phase II. Any traffic impacts will be offset through using smart signal technology that uses cameras to monitor traffic in real-time and adjust the signals to help keep traffic flowing, as well as traffic calming and other methods.

What studies were performed?In 2017, in preparation for Downtown Phase II, a traffic consultant performed a traffic impact study that looked at current traffic volumes in and around the downtown, as well as projected traffic volumes after Phase II was built. When modifications were made to the Phase II preliminary plan, a final study was completed in February 2019 to reflect traffic impacts based on those modifications.

What was studied?

The consultant looked at current traffic conditions within a radius of the Downtown Phase II area, including traffic counts, traffic signalization, and traffic flows. The current conditions then were compared to the projected traffic volumes after Downtown Phase II.

What is the current traffic situation?

The study showed there are current areas that need traffic improvements. Intersections along Route 91 that need improvements include Morning Song Lane, Brandywine Drive, Clinton Street/Aurora Street, and Ravenna Street. Intersections along Route 303 that indicated need of improvements were Boston Mills Road and Oviatt Street. The intersection of Route 303 and Route 91 continues to be an issue, along with the intersection of Valley View and Hines Hill.

What improvements will be needed after Downtown Phase II?

How will the City address these traffic issues?

Following are the current and future issues identified by the study, along with how they will be mitigated. Studies will continue to be performed after the construction of Downtown Phase II, and adjustments would be made as needed.

Current Conditions - Recommendations

Location

Improvement

Year

Comments

Rt. 91 & Morning Song, Brandywine

Add center turn lane, traffic calming

2020

Design underway. Construction in 2020-2021. City will monitor and add traffic calming as needed.

Valley View & Hines Hill

Round-about being considered

2024

City will apply to AMATS for grant in 2019. If approved, construction in 2024-2025

Rt. 303 & Rt. 91

Smart signal technology

2020

Use Smart Signal Technology that will adjust traffic flow in real time based on new technology. Will immediately improve traffic flow, rather than waiting to adjust manually.

Rt. 91 & Clinton/Aurora

Smart signal technology

2020

Use Smart Signal Technology that will adjust traffic flow in real time based on new technology. Will immediately improve traffic flow, rather than waiting to adjust manually.

Rt. 91 & Ravenna

Smart signal technology

2020

Use Smart Signal Technology that will adjust traffic flow in real time based on new technology. Will immediately improve traffic flow, rather than waiting to adjust manually.

Rt. 303 & Boston Mills

Smart signal technology

2024

Use Smart Signal Technology that will adjust traffic flow in real time based on new technology. Will immediately improve traffic flow, rather than waiting to adjust manually.

Rt. 303 & Oviatt

Monitor intersection 2019-2021

2021

Make changes as needed based on monitoring.

After Downtown Phase II - Recommendations

Location

Improvement

Year

Comments

Morse & Owen Brown

Stop sign/project road design

2020

Stop sign control as well as design of street flow within development to discourage vehicles traveling on Owen Brown.

Rt. 91 & Prospect

Smart signal technology

2024

What about historical Owen Brown Street and the railroad underpass?

The study did an in-depth review of Owen Brown Street, including the railroad underpass and the residential block between N. Main St. and Morse Road. Based on the study, the railroad underpass will be improved with stop signs when the development is completed, and if necessary, a traffic signal may be installed in the future. A post traffic study will be completed by the City to determine if a signal is warranted in the future. Any potential increase in east-west traffic along the historical Owen Brown St. between North Main Street and Morse Road will be addressed with graduated traffic improvements, as needed, to mitigate any increase in traffic.